Copper-catalyzed δ-C(sp2)-H imidation of para-quinone methides: synthesis and anticancer evaluation of novel bis(sulfonimide) derivatives.

A copper-catalyzed δ-C(sp2)-H imidation of para-quinone methides (p-QMs) with N-fluorobenzenesulfonimide (NFSI) has been developed, providing access to novel bis(sulfonimide)-functionalized p-QMs under optimized conditions. Mechanistic studies support a radical pathway involving regioselective C(sp2)-N bond formation with broad substrate scope and good functional-group tolerance. Among the synthesized compounds, 3r exhibited cytotoxicity against Dalton's lymphoma and MCF-7 cells by inducing apoptosis and suppressing glycolytic activity.